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Are thoughts related to fornication and playing with women in a lust-inducing way, which a person is tempted by, considered as fornication?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

Adultery is one of the grave sins, and sexual thoughts are a whisper from Satan. Therefore, one must seek refuge in Allah from them, repel them, and be mindful of Allah's constant watch. These thoughts can develop into actions if not resisted, as a fleeting thought becomes an idea, then a desire, then a firm intention, then an action, and then a habit. A mere concern or thought without firm intention is not held against a person, as stated in the Hadith: "Indeed, Allah has forgiven my Ummah for what crosses their minds, as long as they do not speak of it or act upon it." It is recommended to frequently remember Allah and perform prayers, for "indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater." These two serve as a fortress against Satan. It is also advised to hasten to marry to protect one's chastity and lower one's gaze.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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